Sandstone Canyon Hummus Snack (Printable)

Creamy hummus waves paired with crunchy beige crackers and aromatic spices create a visually stunning Mediterranean layering.

# Components:

→ Hummus Layers

01 - 1 cup classic hummus (store-bought or homemade)
02 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
03 - 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
04 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
05 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

→ Crackers

06 - 7 ounces beige crackers (whole wheat, sesame, or water crackers)

→ Garnish

07 - 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
08 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
09 - 1 small lemon, cut into wedges

# Method:

01 - Combine hummus, smoked paprika, olive oil, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper in a bowl; mix until smooth and evenly seasoned.
02 - Spread a thin, wavy layer of hummus on a large serving platter using a spatula to form ridges and valleys that resemble a canyon landscape.
03 - Position crackers upright into the hummus following the wavy pattern, overlapping slightly to simulate canyon walls.
04 - Alternate between hummus and crackers in gentle waves, building up 3 to 4 layers for visual depth.
05 - Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and chopped parsley over the top for added texture and color.
06 - Present immediately with lemon wedges on the side to enhance flavor.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It looks impressive enough to make people think you spent hours, but it genuinely takes fifteen minutes.
  • There's something oddly meditative about spreading hummus in waves and standing crackers like you're building something real.
  • Everyone expects it to taste simple, then they taste the layers of spices and realize there's actual flavor hiding under the art.
02 -
  • Crackers will soften if they sit in hummus too long, so don't build this more than an hour before serving or you'll end up with a delicious but visually deflated canyon.
  • The key to making this look intentional is committing to the wave pattern from the start—waffling between organized and chaotic makes it look like a mistake instead of a design choice.
03 -
  • Use a small offset knife instead of a regular spatula if you want cleaner, more deliberate waves—it gives you better control.
  • Toast your own sesame seeds in a dry pan for two minutes if you have time; the flavor difference is worth the five minutes.
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